Community, colleagues celebrate Lt Col A.A. Bako as he departs Nkwagu Cantonment in Ebonyi
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nkwagu Military Cantonment in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, witnessed a remarkable outpouring of emotion and respect on Tuesday as the community, colleagues, and former corps members gathered to bid farewell to Lt Col A.A. Bako, the Commanding Officer, whose leadership left an indelible mark on the cantonment and beyond.
From the early hours of the day, residents of Abakaliki and surrounding communities converged on the cantonment, waving flags and chanting songs of praise, to honor a man whose career exemplified discipline, integrity, and service.
“Sir, your leadership was not just felt, it was experienced,” said Glory Daniel Ajah, a former corps member, as she recounted her time under his command. “You led with purpose, treated everyone with respect, and made the cantonment a place of learning, growth, and excellence.”
During his tenure, Lt Col. Bako was known not only for his strict adherence to military values but also for his humane approach to leadership. Colleagues and corps members described him as firm but fair, quiet yet profoundly impactful. His presence fostered an environment of order and calm strength, where professionalism and humanity coexisted.
As he prepared to depart, the cantonment grounds were filled with cheers, banners, and heartfelt tributes. Children of staff, retired officers, and local residents lined the streets, paying homage to a man whose service transcended the walls of the barracks and touched the entire community.
“Thank you for setting an example, thank you for carrying your office with grace and dignity, and thank you for your service to Nigeria,” Glory Daniel Ajah said during the ceremony, her voice choked with emotion. “Lt Col. Bako, you’ve left a legacy in Nkwagu that will not be forgotten.”
Speeches, accolades, and songs of appreciation filled the air as attendees reflected on his career and the positive influence he had on countless young officers and corps members.
Among the highlights of the celebration was a parade in his honor, where units under his command demonstrated their drills, discipline, and coordination, a living testament to the leadership he inspired.
The farewell was not only a celebration of a military career but also a recognition of the bond between the cantonment and the local community, symbolizing the trust, respect, and admiration earned through decades of unwavering service.
Lt Col. A.A. Bako, widely described as a true officer and a fine gentleman, leaves Nkwagu Cantonment as a figure whose principles, humility, and dedication have inspired a generation of soldiers and civilians alike.
